Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara

During our evaluation in Rajasthan of a mixed driving cycle, both the mild hybrid and strong hybrid variants were extensively tested by Siddharth Vinayak Patankar. Powertrain tuning philosophy is generally the same throughout: smooth, predictable and comfort-oriented.

Engine Options Evaluated

1.5-litre Mild Hybrid Petrol 

This combination accounts for most of the sales. In city driving, throttle calibration was progressive and easy to modulate. We noticed that the engine felt smooth and quite cooperative in traffic. Moreover, the clutch effort on the manual is light enough for daily commutes. However, when driven enthusiastically, limits appear.
As Siddharth observed during our highway test:
“It does fine, but it will not excite on sheer performance. The tuning obviously puts efficiency first, and punch second.”

The 6-speed torque converter automatic operates cleanly under relaxed throttle inputs. But in Drive mode, it is not very keen on downshifting aggressively. Paddle shifters help to regain some control, but this is still not a performance-oriented setup.On highways at 100-120 kmph, the engine feels composed and relaxed. But overtakes obviously have to be planned, especially with four or five occupants onboard. Compared to turbo-petrol rivals such as the Hyundai Creta 1.5-litre Turbo, or Kia Seltos Turbo, the Grand Vitara is measured in contrast and not urgent.

AWD Capability

The AllGrip AWD system, available only with the manual mild hybrid, provides real versatility. When we subjectively challenged it on our controlled off-road evaluation, the system handled loose surfaces, inclines and uneven terrain confidently. With Snow, Sport and Auto modes, the torque distribution can be locked when needed.
In practical Indian conditions, this system comes in handy in hill states and snow-bound areas like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, or Kashmir. Instead of spinning the front wheels and getting stuck on the icy inclines, the AllGrip system proactively sends torque to the back axle to improve traction and move the vehicle forward with more stability. 
Importantly, AllGrip is Maruti Suzuki's own AWD technology, despite the fact that the Grand Vitara is co-developed with Toyota. The system has been tuned and calibrated by Maruti for Indian road and terrain conditions. With 210mm ground clearance, the Grand Vitara is not a hardcore off-roader, but it is more capable than most urban SUVs in this segment.
The limitations are clear:

• No AWD with automatic
• No AWD with strong hybrid

1.5-litre Petrol + CNG 

The factory-fitted CNG version has the same 1.5-litre engine, but it is detuned to 88 bhp and 121 Nm. In city conditions, the difference in power is noticeable, but not dramatic. The engine maintains its smooth nature and drivability is not too bad for regular commutes.
However, on highways, the CNG version is much more relaxed in response. Overtakes need to be well planned and driving at triple-digit speeds requires patience. In our evaluation, we found this powertrain to be good for predictable urban routes as opposed to frequent highway travel. The refinement is still acceptable, but this is obviously the most utility-focused in the range.

1.5-litre Strong Hybrid 

Using Toyota's TNGA-based system with a 177.6V lithium-ion battery, the strong hybrid generates a total of 114 bhp and has an e-CVT transmission. Initial acceleration is often coincided in pure EV mode. The silence while pulling out of parking spaces or moving through slow traffic is immediately noticeable.
As Siddharth remarked during the back-to-back comparison with the mild hybrid:
“The strong hybrid is more mature and refined. It is not dramatically faster, but it is noticeably more polished.”

There are reduced NVH levels and the steering calibration is more consistent. The ride quality is also more settled than that of the mild hybrid. However, performance is also optimised for efficiency. Under hard acceleration, the e-CVT has the typical rubber band effect and the engine note can be heard. In addition, the latest directive calls for 95 Octane petrol, so owning it is slightly more expensive.

Limitations remain:

• No manual gearbox
• No AWD option